Over 100 Competitors Race In FYRo Macedonia

Ilinden International Regatta 2006

Ohrid, FYRo Macedonia

108 contestants made this year's Ilinden International Regatta a runaway success on Lake Ohrid in FYRo Macedonia. Competitors from four different nations battled for the titles.

The regatta took place from 31 July-2 Augst with a total of six to eight races held depending on the class. Racing took place across a range of ages in the Optimist, Laser, Laser Radial, 470, Europe, Flying Junior, Mistral and Keelboats. The average air temperature was 26-28˚C; average water temperature 23˚C and average wind eight to ten knots. The sailing courses were Olympic Trapezoid for Optimist, Laser, 470 and Europe and Olympic Triangle for Flying Junior, Mistral and Keelboats.

The regatta was strongly supported with an International Jury comprised of one ISAF International from Montenegro, and one National Judge from both Bulgaria and Macedonia. There were Race Committee boats on every mark, three support boats for emergency interventions, a motorboat with a medical team of two doctors, the jury boat, a finish boat, and a ship for coaches, parents, guests and the press.

The Winners

Montenegro's Igor LES took the Optimist title ahead of team mate Dusan BOGDANOVIC, with Macedonia's Dimitar STEFANIJA in third. Petrova JOANA (BUL) took the girls' title.

Serbia's Dejan VASILIJEVIC was a clear winner in the Laser, with last year's champion Martin PEJOSKI of the host nation in fourth. Serbia also took the honours in the Laser Radial and 470 thanks to Maja KNEZEVIC and Igor IVANCIR and Dejan ANTIC respectively. Meanwhile Macedonia swept up victories in the Mistral, Flying Junior and keelboat raced in the Minitonec.

Apart from racing, a busy social calendar was organized for every participant in the regatta. Overall the regatta was a success, the organizing authority was satisfied, the guests were happy and everybody was in great spirits.